Multiple Choice
Why is there a limited range of stellar surface temperatures around 10,000 K at which neutral hydrogen gas absorbs visible light in the Balmer series?
A) There must be electrons at the n = 3 energy level for Balmer absorption to occur. If the gas is too cold, electrons are only in the n = 1 and 2 levels; if the gas is too hot, the gas is ionized and no electrons are left in the hydrogen atoms.
B) Electrons in hydrogen have to be at the n = 2 energy level to produce absorption in this series. If the gas is too cold, most atoms are in the n = 1 state; if it is too hot, most atoms are ionized.
C) Electrons must be in the ground state n = 1 to undergo Balmer absorption. If the gas is too cold, electrons cannot be excited from this level; if the gas is too hot, there are no electrons left in the n = 1 level.
D) There must be sufficient continuum radiation from the stellar surface in the visible region to be absorbed by the hydrogen gas.
Correct Answer:

Verified
Correct Answer:
Verified
Q4: How far out into space can distances
Q61: As you move closer to a star,which
Q63: What characterizes A-type stars?<br>A) They have the
Q64: Which sequence of stellar spectral classifications is
Q67: Absolute magnitude is defined as the apparent
Q69: A particular star has an apparent magnitude
Q70: The Sun's absolute magnitude is about +5.The
Q71: Which possible factor MOST seriously limits the
Q80: A star of apparent magnitude +4.7 appears
Q236: How bright (in absolute magnitude) are the